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LDL-apheresis significantly reduces urinary apo(a) excretion
K M Kostner1, M Jansen, G Maurer
1Department of Cardiology, University Hospital of Vienna, Waehringerguertel.
European Journal of Clinical Investigation
|January 1, 1997
Summary
Urinary apolipoprotein(a) fragments reflect plasma lipoprotein(a) levels. In familial hypercholesterolaemia patients, LDL apheresis rapidly reduced both plasma Lp(a) and urinary apo(a).
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Nephrology
Background:
- Elevated plasma lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] is a significant risk factor for atherosclerosis.
- Apolipoprotein(a) [apo(a)] fragments have been detected in urine, correlating with plasma Lp(a).
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate urinary apo(a) levels in patients with familial hypercholesterolaemia (FH).
- To assess the impact of LDL apheresis on urinary apo(a) in FH patients.
Main Methods:
- Measurement of plasma Lp(a) and urinary apo(a) normalized to creatinine.
- Comparison between FH patients and controls before and after LDL apheresis.
Main Results:
- FH patients exhibited over a 2-fold increase in plasma Lp(a) and urinary apo(a) compared to controls (P < 0.0001).
- LDL apheresis reduced plasma Lp(a) by 75% and urinary apo(a) by 45%.
Conclusions:
- Urinary apo(a) serves as a reliable indicator of plasma Lp(a) levels.
- LDL apheresis rapidly normalizes urinary apo(a) levels in FH patients, achieving a steady state.